The Newly Integrated ISU Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic

We are happy to announce the merger of the former Plant Disease Clinic, the former Insect Clinic and other plant-related services into a new integrated service called the ISU Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic. The new, interdepartmental Clinic combines services provided by the departments of Plant Pathology, Entomology, Horticulture and Agronomy into a multi-specialty, one-stop-shop located in recently-remodeled room 327 Bessey Hall.

The clinic will host an open house in Room 327 Bessey Hall on Wednesday, July 25, from 2 to 4 p.m. Meet the diagnosticians and other staff, see the clinic facility and enjoy light refreshments.

The ISU Plant and Insect Diagnostic Clinic staff can diagnose plant health problems caused by diseases, insects or the environment. In addition, they also can identify insects, weeds and fungi. Once they have diagnosed your disease or identified your insect pest, they can advise you on the best course of action to take.

"We believe that a one-stop shop will make it much easier for homeowners, gardeners, growers and all our clientele to contact us and get the timely help they need," says Laura Jesse, clinic diagnostician.

Beginning immediately, county extension offices, growers and homeowners can send samples and messages to the new Clinic. There is no charge for insect, weed and fungal identification. There is a $10 charge for diagnosis of plant problems (plant diseases or insect feeding damage).

Plant samples should consist of the entire plant when possible, or at least a representative sample. Wrap the plant material in a dry paper towel or newspaper. Place loosely in a plastic bag and ship in a sturdy box. Insects should be shipped in a container that will prevent crushing in the mail, a pill bottle or vial of some sort. Soft bodied insects, like caterpillars, ship better if preserved in alcohol or hand sanitizer.

If a sample is too large, (e.g., a tree) a photo can be useful for problem diagnosis. Send photos by mail or send a digital image by e-mail to the clinic. If further sample material is need, the staff will let you know.